Responding to increased attacks on merchant ships, the Indian Navy reinforces maritime security with four destroyers, one frigate, and a P-8I patrol aircraft in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden. A Predator Drone aids surveillance, while Dornier aircraft and helicopters enhance maritime monitoring. Recent incidents, including attacks on MV Ruen and MV Chem Pluto, prompt heightened vigilance. Task groups, including destroyers and frigates, conduct maritime security operations, supporting merchant vessels. INS Mormugao joins INS Kochi and INS Kolkata in the deployment, emphasizing a deterrent presence. Close coordination with the Coast Guard ensures effective surveillance of the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticizes PM Modi after wrestler Vinesh Phogat returns Khel Ratna and Arjuna Award, emphasizing the struggle wrestlers face for justice. Phogat left the awards at Kartavya Path in protest, linking the move to alleged insensitivity and political gains. In his X post, Gandhi questions, "Today, has the cost of 'political gains' derived from a declared 'strongman' become greater than the tears of these brave daughters?" He adds, "The prime minister is the guardian of the nation, witnessing such insensitivity causes anguish." The controversy involves accusations against former Wrestling Federation of India president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Gandhi calls for sensitivity from the nation's guardian and highlights the emotional toll on brave daughters. The sports ministry later suspended the elected committee, advocating an ad-hoc panel for the Wrestling Federation of India.

Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, enhance security measures for New Year's Eve. Delhi deploys over 10,000 personnel, with 250 traffic teams monitoring violations. Section 144 imposed in Noida, Gurugram issues traffic advisories, and Bengaluru restricts vehicular movement in key areas. Mumbai Police deploys 2,051 officers to maintain order. Chennai deploys 18,000 personnel, bans firecrackers in residential areas, and monitors coastal regions. Hyderabad intensifies actions against drug consumption with special test kits and canine units. Cities aim to prevent disruptions, ensuring safety during celebrations with strict regulations and increased law enforcement presence.

Real estate mogul Niranjan Hiranandani, co-founder of Hiranandani Group, surprises commuters by traveling on Mumbai's local train to Ulhasnagar. The 73-year-old shared the journey on Instagram, emphasizing saving time and experiencing the city's lifeline. The video gains over 22 million views, with praise for his use of public transport. Some criticize him for boarding the handicapped coach, reserved for specific passengers. Despite the debate, Hiranandani's train ride sparks admiration, with many lauding him as a role model for contributing to pollution reduction and infrastructure development. [Screengrab from n_hiranandani/instagram]

A government investigation into Nepal's January plane crash reveals pilot error as the cause of the tragedy that claimed 72 lives. The report points to pilots mistakenly cutting power, causing an aerodynamic stall. Due to a lack of awareness, they incorrectly positioned control levers, leading to the engine running idle. The aircraft flew for 49 seconds before crashing near Pokhara International Airport. The report cites human factors, including high workload and stress, contributing to the misidentification. The aircraft was deemed well-maintained with qualified crew. This marks Nepal's deadliest air crash since 1992, highlighting ongoing safety challenges in the region.

India reported 841 new COVID-19 cases, marking the highest in over seven months. The active caseload rose to 4,309, with three new deaths reported in Kerala, Karnataka, and Bihar. The surge follows a period of low infection rates until December 5. The emergence of the JN.1 sub-variant and colder weather contribute to the recent spike. India has reported 4.50 crore cases and 5,33,361 deaths since January 2020. Despite the rise, the recovery rate stands at 98.81%, with over 220.67 crore vaccine doses administered. Health authorities remain vigilant, urging adherence to safety protocols.

Shahi Imam Syed Ahmed Bukhari of Delhi's Jama Masjid criticized the Muslim world, stating, "Muslim world not lived up to its responsibilities" in the Israel-Palestine conflict. He urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying, "Hope PM Modi exerts diplomatic pressure on Israel." Bukhari emphasized, Immediate and permanent solution based on UN, Arab League, and Gulf Cooperation Council resolutions. Stressing the 'two-state theory,' he called for resolving the Palestinian issue. As the Israel-Gaza war enters its 86th day, the Imam's plea highlights the need for international intervention. The conflict's gravity prompts a plea for urgent diplomatic efforts, echoing calls for peace in accordance with established resolutions.

Mumbai heightened security measures as an unknown caller issued a bomb threat during New Year's celebrations. The call, received by the Mumbai Police Control Room at 6 pm on Saturday, warned of imminent explosions in the city. Authorities conducted thorough checks following the threat but found nothing suspicious. Police are actively working to trace the caller. In response to the potential danger, Mumbai Police intensified security across the city to ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the festive New Year period.

Karnataka recorded 201 fresh COVID-19 cases and one new death in the past 24 hours, raising the total active cases to 833. Bengaluru Urban district conducted the highest number of tests, with a total of 7,060 tests in the state. The positivity rate stands at 2.84%, and the case fatality rate is 0.49%. A 74-year-old individual with comorbidities succumbed to the virus in Mysuru. The state government emphasizes COVID-appropriate behavior and considers administering a precautionary vaccine amid rising cases, urging citizens to follow safety measures and seek medical attention promptly.

The US successfully thwarted two anti-ship ballistic missiles launched by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, responding to a distress call from the Maersk Hangzhou, a Singapore-flagged container ship. The vessel reported a missile strike, prompting the US to intercept the threats. This incident marks the 23rd attack by Houthis on international shipping since November 19. The US, along with other nations, maintains a maritime task force to address the growing challenges posed by such attacks in the Red Sea. No injuries were reported in this latest interception, according to the US Central Command.